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The Asphalt Jungle

Presented by The Colonial Theatre

November 6, 2011

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One dictionary definition of a caper (aside from those little salty berries found in some gourmet Italian dishes) is “an elaborate, well-planned criminal act, especially theft.” Well, this month we?re serving up some of moviedom’s finest caper flicks, featuring some of the best planned crimes on film.

Starting off, we bring you John Huston?s adaptation of W.R. Burnett?s memorable crime novel, The Asphalt Jungle. With it?s top-level cast, including Sterling Hayden, Sam Jaffe, Louis Calhern, and (heating up the screen in one of her first featured roles) a young Marilyn Monroe, this taut, realistic film keeps the viewer riveted from beginning to end. Detailing the organizing, meticulous planning, execution, and aftermath of the robbery of a fancy jewel firm, this is truly, as Leonard Maltin has called it, “a model of its kind.” The acting, especially by Sam Jaffe (Oscar-nominated for his role as the somewhat creepy mastermind who organizes the job) and Sterling Hayden, is top-notch throughout and the suspense mounts masterfully to its inevitable climax. (Bill Roth)

Directed by John Huston. US. 1950. NR. 112 min. Warner Bros. 35mm.